A powerful heatwave has swept across Europe, with temperatures in some places exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, forcing authorities to activate the highest level of warnings for the health of citizens.
Italy has placed all 27 major cities included in its national heat monitoring system on red alert, the first time this year that the entire network has been activated simultaneously at the highest risk level.
The alert extends from Trieste in the north to Palermo in Sicily and applies to the entire population, not just the elderly or people with chronic health problems.
Authorities have urged residents and tourists to avoid sun exposure during the hottest hours of the day, stay in cool environments, and consume enough water.
Meanwhile, Austria has recorded its highest temperature ever, with thermometers in Bad Deutsch-Altenburg reaching 41.2 degrees Celsius. The new record was set just one day after the previous national record was set.
Slovakia has also recorded the highest temperature ever measured in the country.
The situation is particularly worrying in parts of Central Europe, where the heatwave is being accompanied by severe drought, wildfires and pressure on energy supplies.
Scientists warn that periods of extreme temperatures are becoming more frequent and intense, a trend linked to global warming.
As temperatures continue to rise, European authorities are facing numerous challenges in protecting public health, the functioning of transport and energy systems, and the impact of the heat on tourism.